Scott's Department of Economic Opportunity on Wednesday issued a news release touting an 18.5 percent increase in housing starts in August compared to the same month last year. It also notes recent increases in median housing prices, job creation, job postings and job placements.

Scott is quoted as saying the positive housing indicators show "people are feeling more confident in buying or building a home."

The department also is promoting a forecast by University of Central Florida economist Sean Snaith that predicts more job and economic growth for the state in 2013.